Bryant University Top Questions

What should every freshman at your school know before they start?

Austin

If I were to go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would encourage myself to be more outgoing at college. I understand that it is a difficult task, but I noticed that after my first year of college, I do not know too many people outside of my frisbee team and my classes. This isn't a bad thing, but I feel as if I should be meeting more people because they could potentially help me after college. This is the advice that I try to give to my friends that are currently graduating high school and are set to attend college in the fall.

Lauren

I would say to relax. The unique part of college is finding yourself. There is no longer friends that you know inside and out anymore, you are forced to make new ones. I would tell myself "Lauren, it will all fall into place." During high school, I stressed about everything. I was always worried if my grades were good enough or if I was participating in enough. Ironically , I did not know I could possibly involve myself more until I came to college. The transition is simple and hectic and absurd. It is the most difficult thing I have ever gone through but the easiest at the same time. I feel like I have found myself now and that is one of the best feelings. So, to refer back, I would tell myself to relax. The stress I carried with me every day of my senior year was unnecessary because I did not abide by my rule of thumg; that everything happens for a reason. I should have simply trusted that.

MAilene

If i could go back I would tell myself to save, save and save for my college. Growing up in a poor household I had no choice but to go to a community college after high school and than tranfer to Bryant University. Looking back that was the best choice I made. Bryant is very expensive and I can only afford to go there on a part time basis and thats while taking out loans. I would tell myself to work and save before I decided to attend college, or at least look for more scholarships.

Stephanie

I would tell myself to be ready for more work and writing essays. I would tell myself to start the first week out with writing all assignments due for the semester down in a planner. Spend more time studying, just becasue you technically do not have an assignment due the next day or something is due in two months, always start them! I would tell myself to learn how to adapt to living with someone who is opposite of yourself. Do not talk down to people as if you are better, but to talk things out and not assume everyone has the same tendencies as you. I would also advise myself to manage money a little better. Just becasue you have your taxes back does not mean you can go out to eat every weekend or a shopping spree is okay. Learn to live within limits, to have fun but not go crazy.

nannette

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself not to worry so much about the ridiculous drama going on, in exactly one year from now none of that will matter. I would say to work and study harder to pass theAP Literature exam, I could be saving a ton of money right now. I would tell myself to visit my father in Dominican Republic during the summer before school starts so I wouldn't regret it now. I'd say don't worry, you are gonna be fine, you'll realize that you're just getting started with the rest of your life and here is when you choose which path you will take. Graduation is just the beginning, stop being so worried about the future remember it comes one day at a time.

Nicholas

I would tell myself to enjoy, and make the most of the time with the friends that I had. Most people lose the friendships that they once had in high school. Being able to keep those friendships and keep those bonds strong would really make a difference when one graduates from college. Doing this would give one the ability to better create lasting relationships with contacts and connections in the future.

Jenifer

If I could go back in time nad prepare myself for the challenging academics at Bryant University I would. I would warn myself to keep in mind the amount of work heading my way and to brace myself because it is completely different than my experience in high school. I would also tell myself to be more open and and to let my guard down. For the first semester of my freshman year it was diffcult for me to make friends because the transition and the workload overhwlmed me. I stayedto myself and didn't make much friends at all. I would tell myself to let go a bit and to allow myself to balance both a social life and an academic life. Lastly, I would tell myself to save up money for books because they are very expensive. It has alwas been difficult for me at the beginning of each semester because the books are expensive and my financial aid usually does not cover all of the tuition. Saving money through out the year helps me save for the tuition that my aid does not cover and also for the books I need. I just hope I listened!

Makena

The winters in Rhode Island are fairly normal for anyone who has grown up in the northeast, but coming from Texas, they definitely took some getting used to. My advice if you're from a warmer climate is to stock up on clothes that you can layer (tanks under long-sleeved shirts under sweaters under jackets, etc.), winter accessories (hats, scarves, gloves, etc.), and invest in a good coat and snow shoes. Oh and rain boots too. Spring - and even fall - can be pretty rainy. That being said, fall and spring are gorgeous on campus and even winter has its unique beauty (think sunny days when everything is covered in fresh powdered snow). Another interesting thing about Bryant is the amount of group work we do in classes. Expect to be assigned group projects pretty much from day one. Around 80-90{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of the classes I've taken in my four years have involved some sort of group work. This is meant to help prepare students for real-world work environments in which teamwork is very common. Sometimes group projects can be annoying and tedious, but looking back I can definitely see how they have helped me to grow as a person and learn to work well with all different kinds of people in groups. Other than that, get ready to have a lot of fun and work your butt off for the next 4 years! Every college experience has its ups and downs, and Bryant is no different. But in the end it will all be worth it, and you'll be looking back and wondering where the time has gone. So soak it up and take advantage of as many opportunities as you can.

Eric

Bryant University is a great school with a high success rate from their graduates. From being here, I have made so many friends and have learned so much about my future, society, and schooling in general. It has been so valuable for me to attend here, because the teachers are so helpful and help everyone because the class sizes do not exceed 35 students. It will be valuable in the near future when I have the great job of and actuary that I've always wanted, and I know I would not have been able to achieve it without the help Bryant University gives me. This college has also striked my interest in new hobbies like playing guitar and piano. Overall, Bryant University is here for me to learn and make dreams become a reality; it's just up to the student to make this all happen.

John

What I have taken from my college experience so far has been the opportunity to learn in many different ways. Sure I have learned in the classroom from my professors, but I have learned equally as much outside the classroom. I have met new students, made new friends, and have become a part of the campus community. I have learned a lot about myself. College has been a whole new way of life. There is no one telling you what to do or reminding you to get your work done. It is all on me. College has made me more responsible. I have to manage my time and get my priorities in order. College is an opportunity to learn skills and get training that I will use in the future as I go forward into my career. College also will teach me the life skills that will stay with me and shape who I will become long after I graduate.

Sheri

I love Bryant University and I never imagined myself wanting to stay at school through breaks. The students and teachers make this experience great and I learn a lot from everyone else there. It is a small school so I get individual attention and teachers are willing to sit down with me and explain material I do not understand in the classroom. I have learned the value of hard work and good grades. In high school, I never had to do homework or study much to get good grades, but in college, it is different. It is very challenging and I spend most of my time on school work. It is all worth it in the end because I made the Dean's list and I am proud of the work I do. Not only do I spent time on work, but I also spend time making new friends and enjoying the whole college experience. Having friends down the hallway that I can see at any time makes me have to manage my time and not waste it. It has been very valuable to attend college because I am learning more than I did in high school and becoming independent.

Maria

I have experienced many different situations and moments that have truly helped me in developing my character and shaping me into the person I am today. My experiences have truly been some of the best in my life. I have met some outstanding people that have made me want to push myself and accomplish things I've never thought of accomplishing being a first generation college student after first moving to this country from the Dominican Republic. My professors helpfulness, the great friends Ive met, the valuable resources and tremendous service learning experiences traveling to New Orleans, Dominican Republic and other states across the country with my Rugby team, Have all truly been the building blocks to my development. They have all taught me very different lessons but keeping the same goal and focus in mind of pushing mysef to be the best I can be and in helping other along my journey making it an even more rewarding experience along the way. So, what exactly have I received from my college experience....EVERYTHING! It was a small school in Smithfield, RI but the best 4 years of my life.

James

I would not make the same mistakes that I did in spending money. Although I consider myself to be very financially responsible, after my first semester of college I had spent the majority of my savings (which wasn't much) on things that I didn't need to spend money on. My spending was mainly due to having eight roommates who wanted to do something that costs money - - something that I would not normally do. Being in college is about expiriencing life on your own and learning to be independent, as well as financially responsible.

Aieshia

I would tell myself not to underestimate any class, and stick with your syllabus, because it has VERY important information in it! You have to study a lot for exams, and remember you can never study too hard. There is a lot to remember and it doesn't hurt to go over notes after class either. Classes here are ten times as hard as high school classes. Don't party when you should be studying. You will remember a bad grade more than you remember a party you went to. If there's something you don't understand, don't be afraid to ask the teacher, they are there to help. They like to see you taking an interest in your education. There is also the Academic Center for Excellence which helps with papers and had labs for major business classes as well as tutors for one on one help. Your parents are spending a lot of money to ensure you had a stable job, don't waste their funds. Education should be your number one priority in college!

Kelly

I would tell myself that college is a very different lifestyle and although you might think your study habits are sufficient from highschool there are serious adjustments you will have to make. There is a much greater amount of free time that you will be tempted to waste. The workload is less but the tests are worth a greater amount so it is vital that you prepare well for the tests and not just cram the information in the night before because you WILL NOT get the grades you got in highschool by doing this. The library is a useful place to study and is probably not somewhere you are used to going but it will benifit you even if its only for an hour everyday. The resources that colleges offer are very reliable and should be taken advantage of in order to get the most out of your college experience. Do not think that you can go out to parties when you have class the next day even if all of your work is finished. Your learning after a night of drinking and staying out late is not the same.

alycia

If I was to go back in time I would tell myself to chose a career that best fits my personality. I am extremely outgoing and enjoy helping others in need suceed. I will take any chance I have to help someone that needs it. I knew in my heart I wanted to be in a job that serviced others however, at a young age I was blinded. I ended up going to school for business because my father was in business and I thought that was the right thing to do. Now at 27, I've left the working world to pursue my dream of becoming a Physical Therapist. I 've been shadowing at a hospital and find helping others very gratifying. The most rewarding part of this career for me would be to know I have helped in making someone's quality of life better.

Cait

Visit the college and see if it is right for you. You will know it when you find it.

Kelly

Knowing what I know now about college life and making the transition, advice that I would give myself as a high school senior would consist of knowing how to balance classes, building a schedule that would allow ample time for myself to get all of my work completed in a timely fashion, and choosing classes that would focus specifically on my field of work. Balancing classes would be important for me to do so that I would not overwork myself and carry more classes than I could handle at one time. I would explain that having a healthy amount of rigorous and light classes is important for allowing myself time to complete all of my work so that I would not have to "crunch" (try to cram a lot of work in a short period of time) to get everything done on time. Finally I would explain that the significance of selecting classes that concentrate primarily on my desired field of work so that I graduate with my desired degree in the field I want most. For me, it is better to be a master of something than to be a jack of all trades and a master of nothing.

Christopher

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would stress that I should never limit myself. In my time at Bryant I have realized that if you are willing to work hard for something you can achieve it. When I graduate I want to have many opportunities available to me. Hard work and perseverance brings rewards in the long run, so it is very important to stay focused and also not be afraid to take a chance. Sometimes it is important to leave your comfort zone and face new challenges. At the end of your life you will always regret the things you did not do much more than the things you did.

Makena

College is everything you dreamed it would be, and nothing like you expected. Keep reaching for your highest goals, dreams and aspirations. When people see your dedication, drive and focus they will go out of their way to help you. Go for the school of your dreams. If it's a true fit, they'll be honored to have you. The same thing goes for jobs, internships and scholarships. Don't date freshman year. This is a time in your life to work on YOU. Practice learning about and loving yourself before you try to learn about and love anyone else. You will make close friends in TIME. Don't worry if you don't find "the ones" right away. Be patient, keep reaching out, and they will find you. When you go through some really challenging times your loved ones (family and close friends) are going to help you pull through them. You will find ways to pay for college. Just keep working at it; where there's a will, there's a way. Do what scares you (in a good way). Never underestimate yourself. Remember that life is a journey so try to enjoy the ride. Have Fun!

Jennie

Finding the right college means finding a place in which you are comfortable in and can really see yourself in for all four years. The right college for you means a place where you can be yourself but still learn and grow. College is all about your future and the responsibilities you will need to face. It is also a place to find life long friends, a place to join extra curriculars, and a place to finally become that grownup. Everyone needs to evaluate whether or not they could live away from home, their financial state, their aspirations, and their preferences. It is not easy, but so rewarding in the long run. College goes by very fast, so my advice would be to take advantage of time and resources, and just to enjoy oneself. Become a part of your community, study hard, have fun, and just live your life in your dream college. "Carpe Diem" every day!

Anthony

Sometimes financial aid is the only right choice when selecting a college. College is a great experience and should be living it up to the fullest because in just a short time, you'll be having a career.

Emma

The first peice of advice I would give is to relax. College is a big step and is very frightening to think about. The one thing I would like to say to parents is to step back a bit. This is your child's decision, not yours. They should pick the school they feel most comfortable with and can see themselves going there. Let them decide which schools they want to visit and which they do not. Students: Visit as many colleges as you can. These visits can either make or break the deal for you. When you visit a school, ask many questions, but ask yourself one : Can I see myself living here? This was the most important question I seemed to face when I was deciding on colleges. If you can't see yourself walking to class or living in the schools dorms, you will never feel comfortable there. Lastly, think about yourselves. Don't try to make anyone happy when deciding on which college you wish to attend. Decide on the one you like most and you will be happy for the next four years.

Stephen

save your money. go to a state school for two years and excel and then transfer up ! college is only what you make of it. I wouldnt worry about what everyone else is doing but rather concentrate on your future. Dont get too caught up in drugs and acohol becauase in the long run it will not get you to where you want to be. Focus my friend, the world is yours for the taking.

Angela

Don't discount a school based on what you've heard/what you think you want. I grew up thinking I'd go to UConn, that it was the perfect place for me and that I'd continue the family tradition. I went on a tour there and realized the size was going to be a problem. I realized I didn't want to be somewhere that stuck me in a lecture hall to teach myself. I went to Bryant's open house -even though I was pretty sure I didn't want to go there - and I fell in love. Never count someplace out that you haven't seen or experienced

Jonathan

I would highly recommend that students do research into what type of college they want to attend. Whether it be a liberal arts school or a school thats focused more on business or science. The second most important step to take would definatley be to visit the campuses of the schools you choose. You should also look into their resident life department to see if you could spend a day with a student to get a feel for the life on campus. For the parents to feel comfortable with their investment in college they also need to do research into the opportunities that a school can offer their child. The financial aid benefits and career assistance are two of the biggest factors they should focus on. Also, if they like, they should take a look at the housing on campus to see if it is worth the investment. Finally, both student and parent need to sit down and write a list of pros and cons for each school to make sure they can narrow down an appropriate list. If both parent and student can agree on most of these levels I've mentioned it will be easy to choose.

Andrew

I would advise parents and prospective college students to carefully analyze the school's focus and objectives. I would look at the campus setting, the alumni network as well as the academic reputation. I would look at the prospective students goals and what they would like to accomplish both in school and after school. Parents and students also need to look at the students performance in high school in order to determine which schools they may be able to be accepted to. I would encourage students to be heavily involved in extra curricular activities during their college experience. I would also encourage students to take full advantage of the colleges resources and internship opportunities. Stay well connected to your college and make the experience a memorable one.

Brian

Make sure you can see yourself living in the dorms all year round. Don't make a desision based on where your boyfriend/girlfriend is going to school.

Daniel

I would advise students to spend an overnight on a campus and to definitely take college tours. These kinds of actual interactions on the campus really lets you know if it is the right fit for you or not. Also, I would ask a lot of questons and definitely suggest, if on the brink, going to multiple orientations during the summer before entering college to see what each school is like (that is if the other school orientations are not for students who have already paid to go there; Bryant allows students to go to Orientation as long as they were accepted, I think).

David

College is about gaining an experience and the only way to do that is to test the waters. Do not settle on a school because of expectations or reputation. Explore the school, the students, and the faculty. See if this school makes you proud or if you are unsure.

Tom

It's difficult to say. The best you can do is lots of research, speak to students, alumni and faculty to get the best idea of their experiences at the school. Other than that, you won't fully realize the impact of your decision until you near the end of your college career. Its usually at that point that you say "Wow I wish my school had this and that" or "I think I made the best decision possible."

Kara

Finding the perfect college is extremely important; afterall, students will spend 4 years of their lives there. It is extremely important to do your homework. Research many colleges and then narrow down your search by weeding out the schools that prove to be too big, too small or do not offer your major. It is ideal to spend a night at potential colleges so that you are able to get a feel for the atmosphere. Also, make sure that the colleges that you are intereste d in offer the major that you are interested in and financial aid if applicable.

josh

GET INVOLVED!!!

Matt

Find the school that is most suitable for your needs and not anyone else's

Dexter

Make sure that you are getting the best fit when youchoose a college. I was very lucky to find somewhere that worked for me but visit as many times as necessary to make sure you make the right decision. Take advice from students at the school because they area great source for information.

Caitlin

I would suggest visiting all the schools you are considering. When you find that school for you, you will know it. Be open minded throughout the entire process. It will help to make the transition so much easier.

Laura

When looking for the right school, the biggest mistake students make is judging schools by their physical appearance. I saw my current school once and immediately dismissed it. However, when I received my acceptance letter, they gave me a very good scholarship. I looked again at the school, on Open House, and it was a miserable, rainy day. After looking around the campus I became impressed with how friendly everyone was. That is when I decided to apply to Bryant University. Ultimately, this school has become my home. I've enjoyed every minute of it and I feel like I am getting the best education I could for myself. Therefore, to make the best out of your college experience, you should really look at the people there. If you can see yourself fitting in with them and becoming friends with them then you have found your school.

Jennifer

Find a school where you can participate in both classes and other activities that you enjoy. Try and begin to relate this to a practical field in which you will be able to make a carreer, not just recieve a degree.

maggie

Don't worry about the money, if you study hard and get a good job the loans will disappear over time. Don't waste freshman year, a lot of people don't do well then it really hurts them come junior year.

Jessica

Make sure you visit the schools your looking at. That is what sold me on Bryant!

Jenifer

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Chelsea

Definately go visit the school first and make sure that you are ready to work your hardest.

Ashley

Really do your research about your schools. It is important to pick a school that will suit you, your abilities, and skills. It might be a hard decisison, but it should be made by the student alone and not by the parents. If they are worried about financial costs, there are always ways that can be accomidated. Your 4 years of college are going to be the best and most stressful times of your life so you want to have a school that can provide you with the things you need.

Ryan

Let me win

Dominic

The advice I would give to parents and/or students about finding the right college and making the most of the college experience is to definately go with you gut feeling when you visit a campus. If thats difficult then try to cut down your possibilities to 3 main choices. From there give each school a score out of 10 based on your needs for size, location, and distance from home. Then take the college that scores the highest overall. If their is another major decision other than those 3 factors, then factor that in as well. This should make it a lot easier to realize what you truly want for your ideal college. In making the most of the college experience the best advice would be to just get involved on and off campus. When you get involved you begin to prepare yourself for the real world and you also will meet so many new people and make a lot of friends. When you have both real world experiences and a good chunk of friends, then everything else should just fall into place!

Nicole

If you're not sure what you want to do then go to a big school with lots of different majors and different types of people.

Kelsey

For students, I definately suggest taking the time to walk around the campus on your own, without your parents. This gives you a chance to see how comfortable you would be there, and whether you feel lik you would fit in on campus. Visit the campus more than once and talk to the current students while you are there. Make sure that you do the research on what the school offers so that you know what you are getting yourself into and to make sure that you will be able to get exactly what you want out of a school. Once you actually get to school, make sure to take the time the first few days to go up to people and make new friends. Don't be nervous, everyone there is in the same situation as you! Making new friends the first few days will definately help ease your nerves and make starting new classes a lot easier!

Jamie

In order to find the right college, keep in mind your long-term goals. Keep in mind that you have the power to do anything you want in this life, and college is only a means of getting there. The school you choose will be a place that guides you along your way to success. Make the most out of your college experience; don't rush it! Time flies when you're having fun.

Jamie

The academics should be your #1 reason to go to a college or university. Make sure that there is financial aid available, if needed, and if it is affordable. Try to go to a college far enough away from home where you can't go home every weekend so you can get the full experience. Make sure to work very hard in college because you are paying for it. Good Luck! : )

Sean

go on as many tours as possible